Richmond Spiders aim to regain A-10 relevance

Coach Chris Mooney outlines accountability plan after recent down years for the program.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The University of Richmond's men's basketball team, the Spiders, is looking to bounce back after a period of struggles in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Head coach Chris Mooney has outlined an accountability-focused plan to help the team regain its status as a contender in the A-10.

Why it matters

The Spiders have been a consistent presence in the A-10 in recent decades, making the conference tournament regularly. However, the team has fallen on hard times lately, missing the tournament in several of the past few seasons. Regaining their spot as a top A-10 program is crucial for the university's athletic department and fan base.

The details

Coach Mooney's plan includes increased emphasis on player accountability, both on and off the court. This includes stricter academic requirements, more rigorous practice schedules, and a renewed focus on team chemistry and culture. The goal is to instill a sense of pride and commitment in the players that will translate to better on-court performance.

  • The Spiders last made the A-10 tournament in the 2023-24 season.
  • The team has missed the conference tournament in several of the past few seasons.

The players

Chris Mooney

The head coach of the University of Richmond men's basketball team, who has been leading the program since 2005.

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What they’re saying

“We have to hold our players to a higher standard in every aspect of their lives if we want to get back to being an A-10 contender year in and year out.”

— Chris Mooney, Head Coach (Richmond Times Dispatch)

What’s next

The Spiders will look to implement Mooney's accountability plan during the upcoming offseason and preseason, with the goal of returning to the A-10 tournament in the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

After a period of struggles, the University of Richmond men's basketball team is refocusing on accountability and team culture in an effort to regain their status as a consistent contender in the Atlantic 10 Conference.